A few days ago I posted a blog that discussed the concept of Universal Design (transportation facilities designed to accommodate all possible users, including those with disabilities and other special needs) and the value it provides to individuals and communities. One way to approach this issue is to define the design vehicle for pedestrian facilities.
Walking
The Park Prescription
One doctor has begun advising her patients to simply take a walk in the park to improve their overall health. And as she describes in this article, she's not alone.
The Washington Post
Barriers to Walking
This report from NPR briefly looks at causes for concern, when it comes to the decline in walking in the US, including safety and obesity.
NPR
Ban on Biking and Walking to School May Be Lifted
A 15-year-old ban on biking and walking to school in Saratoga Springs, New York may be lifted, after one bike-friendly parent challenged the policy.
Governing
Debate Over Letting Kids Walk To School
The New York Times goes over the debate over whether it is acceptable to let children walk to school nowadays. The topic has many parents expressing mixed feelings about the issue.
The New York Times
Sidewalks Key Factor Influencing Physical Activity
A new study provides further evidence that incorporating sidewalks into existing neighborhoods is a practical and inexpensive way of encouraging people to exercise.
SDSU NewsCenter
Nobody Walks in Dubai
The United Arab Emirates has plenty of tall, flashy buildlings, but the rush to build has largely left street life scarce in many parts.
The National (Abu Dhabi)
Students Give Up Wheels for Their Own Two Feet
This piece from the New York Times looks at a program in Italy the encourages children to walk to school.
The New York Times
Sweet Spot Density for Livable Neighborhoods
Tue, 12/30/2008 - 15:37
Single-family detached homes typically epitomize sprawl, while 4 or 5 story apartment buildings now seem to be the utopian ideal for livable neighborhoods. But some of the most livable and walkable neighborhoods I know are largely comprised of single family homes.
Cars Left Behind in Most Trips to Vancouver's Core
A recent study shows that about 60% of all trips into the urban core of Vancouver are not by car.
The Vancouver Sun
Seniors Facing High Gas Prices Find Giving Up Their Cars Tough
AARP finds that 29% of older Americans polled say they are now walking as a way to avoid high gas prices, but 40% say the sidewalks in their area are inadequate.
Market Watch - Also Associated Press story
Google Maps Adds Walking Directions
Google announces walking directions feature for Google Maps.
Google
Can Landscape Architects Get Kids to Walk to School?
Fewer kids are walking to school these days. This piece from the American Society of Landscape Architects' Land Online wonders what landscape architects can do to reverse the trend.
Land Online
British Columbians Ditching Cars
More people in British Columbia are responding to higher gas prices by ditching their cars and rising bikes, taking transit and walking, according to a recent survey.
The Vancouver Sun
Friday Funny: Addressing the Dangers of Texting While Walking
More and more people are injuring themselves by walking into poles while looking down at their cell phones. This video from ITN News looks at an effort in England to make the streets safer for walking texters.
ITN News via Engadget
Smart Growth Safety Benefits
Tue, 11/20/2007 - 06:02
Many families move to sprawled, automobile-dependent suburbs because they want a safe place to raise their children. They are mistaken. A smart growth community is actually a much safer and healthier place to live overall.
